Geography Geography 5 min read

COASTAL TREASURES

Do You Know Which Are The 10 Best Beaches In The United States?

Picture the most beautiful, calm beach you can imagine. Soft, warm sand, gentle waves crashing on the shore, and the perfect temperature for sunbathing. While you probably think places like this are only found in paradisiacal exotic lands, the truth is that the United States is home to many incredible beaches. Which one would you include on your list? We've compiled a list of the top 10 beaches in the United States, and if you haven't visited them yet, we suggest you start planning your trip!

1
Coronado Beach, California

Image: KC Welch

Located in Southern California , Coronado Beach is one of the coastal areas that make up this list, and with good reason.

This beach is known for its golden sands that shine under the sunlight, thanks to the presence of mica, a mineral with reflective properties. Picture yourself relaxing there, watching a sunset that makes the sand sparkle ; it's dreamy! Plus, the calm waves allow you not only to take a swim whenever you want but also to practice water sports and activities.

To make your visit even more epic, you can stay at the Hotel del Coronado , a national historic landmark that stands out for its elegant Victorian style. With many years of existence, this hotel has hosted many personalities from our country and the world!

2
Coopers Beach, New York

Image: Jeremy Ricketts

Coopers Beach , in Southampton, New York , is a frequent name in national and global rankings for the best beaches.

In addition to its clear sand and quality water, this beach has another great advantage: its proximity to New York City allows you to explore many landmarks during your trip. Mixing walks in the bustling city with the tranquility of relaxing on the beach will create a unique balance during your vacation!

3
Wailea Beach, Hawaii

Image: Luke Scarpino

When discussing beaches, Hawaii must be part of the conversation. A destination that definitely makes this list is the spectacular Wailea Beach , located in Maui, Hawaii.

If landscapes are your thing, this is the right place for you. With its clear sands and turquoise water, Wailea Beach will not disappoint any beach lover.

Also, this beach in Hawaii is ideal for diving, as it has a wide and varied marine life.

4
Cannon Beach, Oregon

Image: Sneha Chandrashekar

Few places can compare to the natural beauty of Cannon Beach in Oregon.

If you want a picture that gets all the likes , Cannon Beach is the spot for you, as this place is home to the iconic Haystack Rock , an incredible sea stack that rises above the horizon. Imagine walking along those golden sands and tide pools at sunset or very early in the morning!

In addition, this Oregon location is popular among family travelers, and the locals are said to be warm and friendly to visitors.

5
Zuma Beach, California

Image: Jenna Day

With one of the most famous beaches in the country, Malibu , California could not be left out of this list.

Zuma Beach 's constant waves have made it one of the favorite spots for West Coast surfers, who have been gathering in Malibu for many, many years. So, if you want to see surfers doing their magic, you know where to go.

On the other hand, if you'd like to take pictures with celebrities, you should probably visit Malibu, as many movie and music stars have vacation homes in this coastal city.

But if all of the above isn't enough, let's also mention that Zuma Beach is one of the busiest places in the summer, making it ideal for meeting people!

6
Caladesi Island State Park, Florida

Image: Joanna Szumska

There is something that makes Caladesi Island State Park , Florida, a very special place: this beach has long preserved itsnatural stateand wildlife, making it ideal for those who wish to reconnect with nature. This site is only accessible by boat, which, added to its landscapes, promises tranquility, calm , and silence for its visitors.

Its white sand and turquoise water make it a paradise-like beach that can compete with the best Caribbean destinations.

7
Laguna Beach, California

Image: JK Jung

The clear water of Laguna Beach in California is simply captivating. For that reason, many tourists and locals choose this beach for diving and snorkeling.

In addition, Laguna Beach is committed to the care of the environment , promoting the reduction of plastic use and other polluting products. Thus, its beaches are always kept clean and pristine. What are you waiting for to pay a visit to this beautiful place?

8
Poipu Beach, Hawaii

Image: Laurence Gonsalves

The sun is almost always shining on beautiful Poipu Beach in Hawaii . If you are looking for sunny weather and great temperatures to relax on the beach, don't hesitate to visit this place.

Additionally, animal lovers will feel in paradise at Poipu Beach, as here you can find creatures like sea turtles , monk seals, and colorful birds that will make your visit magical.

Another point that makes Poipu Beach a popular destination is its location. Situated on the south shore of Kauai , it is easily accessible to tourists!

9
Main Beach, New York

Image: David Di Veroli

If you really want to live the East Coast beach experience, you can't miss Main Beach in East Hampton, New York.

This beach has the charm of New York State mixed with the sophistication of East Hampton, the purity of nature , and the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean; what more could we ask for?

Besides, Main Beach is known for its cleanliness and maintenance of its facilities, which makes all visitors want to come back.

10
Siesta Beach, Florida

Image: Theodore Poncet

We leave the spectacular Siesta Beach in Sarasota, Florida , for the end, considered by many specialists as the best beach in our country.

One of the things that make it so unique is its sand. It's not just its light color or its soft, powdery texture; Siesta Beach's sand is composed of quartz crystals! This keeps it cool even on the hottest summer days. In addition, the place hosts the annual Siesta Key Crystal Classic International Sand Sculpting Festival, which brings sculptors from all over the country to create works of art with this unique sand!

If you're planning to visit the Gulf of Mexico , Siesta Beach is the place for you, as it offers stunning views and perfect facilities that match every traveler's needs.

Geography Geography 5 min read

Where tourists flock

How many faces does Cloud Gate see per year? The crowdest spots in the US in the US

Image: David Hinkle

Where do people come together? Monuments and landmarks, yes, but also street corners, national parks, theme parks, or piers. The U.S. has an impressive list of spots that summon millions of visitors each year, both local and tourist. Can you guess these 10 most concurred spaces across the country? Let’s take a look at each one and explore why the masses keep flocking towards their main attractions.

1
Times Square, New York

Image: Claudio Schwarz

Of course, the famous multicolored screen-lit corner of Midtown Manhattan is one of the most concurred spots in the country and the world. It is estimated that over 300,000 people pass through this intersection every day.

Forever buzzing with shiny advertisements and businesses that grant service 24/7, the "Crossroads of the World" and its nearby streets are a hub offering adrenaline, entertainment, history, gastronomy, and museum-like stores. During the New Year's Eve ball drop event, the number of visitors can climb up to one million, although it reached its all-time record on December 31st, 1999. An estimated two million people gathered there to watch the ball mark the end of the year, century, and millennium!

2
Las Vegas Strip, Las Vegas

Image: David Vives

The Las Vegas Strip is said to be the brightest spot on the planet when seen from space. This four-mile-long stretch of Las Vegas Boulevard in Nevada concentrates some of the world’s largest and most boastful hotels, casinos, and resorts. No wonder the area attracts approximately 42 million visitors each year.

Although the heart of Las Vegas offers plenty of entertainment venues, fine dining establishments, sports events, galleries, and huge shopping centers, it is most famous for being a gambling destination . A 2019 survey concluded that eight in ten adults who visited Las Vegas gambled while they were there.

3
National Mall, Washington, D.C.

Image: Chad Stembridge

Visitors in Washington D.C. flock in masses to the National Mall. This open-park area sprawls over two miles from the U.S. Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial and is also home to iconic landmarks like the Washington Monument , the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the World War II Memorial. The Smithsonian museums are another attraction, offering free access to art, history, and science exhibitions.

Approximately 30 million visitors walk the area each year, which makes it a top-tier attraction for people all over the country and the world. Of course, the park is most flooded with attendance on special dates and events, such as the celebrations of Independence Day , Earth Day, or the Blossom Kite Festival.

4
Millennium Park, Chicago

Image: Kevin Olson

Those who travel to Chicago know they should visit Millennium Park, and those who go to Millennium Park know they must approach the iconic bean-shaped Cloud Gate . As a consequence, it is estimated that 25 million people are reflected on the silver surface of The Bean every year.

Millennium Park was opened twenty years ago, in 2004, as an urban development built over a former industrial area to promote art and outdoor recreation in the "city in a garden," which is Chicago’s motto.

5
Golden Gate Park, San Francisco

Image: Alireza Mirzabegi

Sprawling by the Pacific Ocean is the Golden Gate Park in San Francisco. It covers a massive 1,017-acre urban section and includes attractions like the de Young Museum, the California Academy of Sciences, and the Japanese Tea Garden. It also offers beautiful gardens , picnic areas, lakes, and iconic structures like the Conservatory of Flowers. Not to mention privileged views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.

24 million visitors come to the park each year, with some events gathering over 200,000 attendees, like the annual Outside Lands Music and Arts Festival. There are spots in this park to suit all interests : Windmills, boat rentals, observation towers, a Shakespeare Garden, 130 species of birds, and even bison!

6
Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, Orlando

Image: kaleb tapp

Even though Magic Kingdom Park charges for admission, it’s still one of the most visited places in the country every year. At least 20 million go through the turnstiles annually to walk the quintessential Disney theme park.

Cinderella’s Castle, Main Street, U.S.A., and iconic attractions like Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, and the Haunted Mansion are fan favorites in this land. Special events held for Halloween, Christmas, and Fourth of July are among the park’s largest annual celebrations, drawing thousands of visitors.

7
Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Boston

Image: Brett Wharton

Faneuil Hall Marketplace has been standing since 1742 when it was established. Historically, it served as a focal point for public discourse and commerce. Today, it is mainly a marketplace that features more than 80 businesses , including eateries, shops, and entertainment venues, all set along charming cobblestone walks.

The area is vibrant all year round, frequented by musicians, magicians, and other performers . Foodie soirees, history tours, and fairs of local enterprises are further reasons to visit the spot. About 18 million do so every year.

8
Balboa Park, San Diego

Image: Vincent Yuan @USA

Balboa Park in San Diego features stunning gardens and buildings, as well as the world-famous San Diego Zoo . 1,200-acre wide, it also houses the San Diego Museum of Art and the San Diego Natural History Museum. The park famously boasts Spanish-Renaissance architecture and has become a hub for both locals and tourists.

During the holidays, the December Nights celebration gathers over 350,000 visitors across two days, when museums offer free entry and festive performances are held. EarthFair is another huge event in the park, attracting 60,000 attendees to one of the world’s largest environmental fairs to promote sustainability.

9
Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Image: Jack Prommel

Straddling the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, this National Park gathers over 12 million people every year. It is indeed the most visited national park in the U.S. and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site . Its mist-covered peaks, lush forests, and diverse wildlife fascinate visitors who walk its hiking trails. These include the Appalachian Trail.

Hundreds of thousands choose to visit the park during fall when autumn colors light up the landscape. In spring, the Wildflower Pilgrimage draws botany enthusiasts who come to the guided talks and walks to appreciate the park's unique biodiversity.

10
Pier 39, San Francisco

Image: Deane Bayas

Pier 39 is ideal for a family-friendly promenade. Located on San Francisco’s Embarcadero, this waterfront marketplace is known for its shops, restaurants, and stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the Bay. There’s also a colony of sea lions forever lounging on its docks, who have become one of the dearest attractions of the site.

Another main attraction is the two-tiered carousel sitting towards the end of the pier. The 15 million pedestrians who come yearly can also enjoy its video arcade, 3D rides, shops, and restaurants, and visit the Aquarium of the Bay.

History History 4 min read

Movies that were to be

Were these movies cursed? Films that never got finished

Image: DS stories

Some movies flicker out before they’re even made. What do you call a film with a famous director, a finished script, and a dream cast? In many cases, unfinished. Hollywood’s drawers are filled with a graveyard of unfinished movies in varying stages: scripts, production plans, casting decisions, and even filmed footage. But they all remain tantalizing what-ifs. Let’s look into the stories of some flicks that never achieved their full potential!

1
The mythical "Kill Bill Vol. 3"

Image: Til Man

Ah, yes, the revenge of the revenge. Quentin Tarantino has been teasing Kill Bill Vol. 3 for nearly two decades. He’s talked about giving the character of Nikki time to grow up and take center stage in the third installment, even floating the idea of casting Zendaya or another grown-up actress in the role.

But as of now? It’s all smoke and samurai swords. Tarantino claims he has one more film left in him, and every fan theory points to Vol. 3 as the final strike.

2
The loaded history of "The Man Who Killed Don Quixote"

Image: Iuliia Dutchak

Johnny Depp and Jean Rochefort were originally set to take the leads, battling windmills as Cervantes’ mad knight and his companion. But this is another case of a film that seemed hexed.

Terry Gilliam first attempted the project in 2000, but many disasters ensued. Health issues, floods that wrecked the sets, and insurance company failings led to the project's dramatic collapse. In 2018, Gilliam finally released a version starring Adam Driver and Jonathan Pryce. But fans agree—it wasn’t that version.

3
Kubrick’s "Napoleon"

Image: Nicolas HIPPERT

The holy grail of unmade epics. Stanley Kubrick devoted years to this project—allegedly reading over 500 books, creating a card catalog of Napoleon’s daily life, and scouting locations across Europe.

He wanted Jack Nicholson in the lead and even planned to use actual armies to stage the battles. MGM said yes… then said nope. The budget was colossal, and Kubrick ultimately shelved it. Though he carried the idea to his grave, the script survived. Steven Spielberg has since talked about adapting it into a miniseries.

4
The irony of "Superman Lives"

Image: Yogi Purnama

Superman Lives was meant to reboot the Man of Steel, with Tim Burton at the helm and Nicolas Cage sporting long black hair and a glow-in-the-dark suit.

But after years of rewrites, studio shake-ups, and ballooning budgets, the whole thing collapsed under its own weight. Though it was never filmed, test footage of Cage in costume became internet legend. And if you really want the full story, the documentary The Death of Superman Lives: What Happened? is the way to go.

5
Jodorowsky’s "Dune"

Image: Francisco Gomes

Alejandro Jodorowsky’s Dune was meant to be a 10-hour odyssey, starring Salvador Dalí as the Emperor, Orson Welles as Baron Harkonnen, and featuring music by Pink Floyd. Yes, really.

However, as one can imagine, the budget grew past sanity. No studio could afford Jodorowsky’s vision. The 2013 documentary Jodorowsky’s Dune explores how this unmade film went on to influence countless others—from Star Wars to Blade Runner .

6
The true "The Thief and the Cobbler"

Image: Fabian Centeno

Richard Williams, the man behind Who Framed Roger Rabbit , spent nearly three decades working on _The Thief and the Cobbler_—a painstakingly hand-drawn masterpiece, inspired by Persian art and silent comedy.

However, by the 1990s, delays and mounting costs led the studio to reconsider its decision. The film was recut, rewritten, and released under various titles, with added songs and jarring voice-overs. The truth is, the original version was never fully completed.

7
The cursed "Blood Meridian"

Image: Erik

So many doomed attempts have been made that Cormac McCarthy’s brutal novel is often labeled "unfilmable." Blood Meridian is a violent fever dream, soaked in sun and sand—which might sound easy to bring to the screen.

Ridley Scott tried. So did James Franco and Todd Field. But each version was ultimately abandoned. In 2024, New Regency announced a new adaptation was in the works. As of now, however, it still seems cursed— Blood Meridian remains untouched by the screen.

8
Orson Welles’ "The Other Side of the Wind"

Image: Andre Moura

Yes, a version was released by Netflix in 2018… but it wasn’t quite what its director originally envisioned.

Orson Welles began shooting The Other Side of the Wind in the early ’70s, imagining a satirical, semi-autobiographical tale about a fading director staging a comeback. But financial chaos, legal snarls, political drama, and even missing reels meant that Welles never lived to finish it.

9
"At the Mountains of Madness" featuring Tom Cruise

Image: Balazs Busznyak

Imagine Tom Cruise battling ancient, brain-melting monsters in Antarctica—based on H.P. Lovecraft’s most mind-bending novella. Now picture Guillermo del Toro directing that nightmare in IMAX 3D. So what happened? It’s not entirely clear, though budget concerns likely played a role. You never know, though. Del Toro has shared some original concept art and designs that just might be revived someday.

10
The Rat Pack’s "The Rogues"

Image: Brice Cooper

A film called The Rogues , starring the Rat Pack, appears in fan lore and anecdotal sources—though there’s little documented proof. Frank Sinatra. Dean Martin. Sammy Davis Jr. The Rat Pack was Hollywood’s smoothest syndicate, both on and off-screen.

In the mid-’60s, they began filming The Rogues , a heist flick in the spirit of Ocean’s 11 . But egos clashed, schedules frayed, and the project derailed mid-production, as legend has it.

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